If you’ve stepped foot in a store within the last year, you’ve seen it: the word “collagen” on countless supplement pills and powders. Skincare enthusiasts have become obsessed with collagen. Did you know that collagen is the most abundant protein in our body? It’s not only responsible for keeping our bones & joints healthy, but it also helps us build muscle mass, and improve the appearance of our skin.
As we age, our bodies’ natural collagen production begins to slow down, and our cell structures begin to weaken. I do notice a little hollowness in my cheeks and the fine lines on the delicate, thin skin under my eyes (Ugh!)
I never knew, let alone really thought about adding collagen peptides as a supplement, until after attending a conference in January and listening to one of the featured presenters talk on how adding collagen peptides can not only reduce skin wrinkles but actually may have other beneficial effects that can extend even beyond skincare like increasing bone density, improving gut health and sleep.
Collagen supplements are a relatively new category and with so many products out there, where do I start? Plus, some of us — i.e., me — don’t have the stomach to swallow pills first thing in the morning (or ever) so what alternative is there?
HELLO GOOGLE…
This is what I found to be the key components in an effective collagen supplement:
- Diverse Amino Acid Profile – the more amino acids, the better.
- Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen – when collagen is hydrolyzed the amino acids within it have been broken down, making it easier for our body to absorb. Bovine from beef has been found to be the most potent and effective.
- Types I & III – any product that contains more than 3 types could mean that the supplement is less effective.
- Pure – No artificial flavors or sweeteners.
AND, all this comes in a powder! I can add a scoop to in my morning coffee! WIN! WIN!
But for some experts though, the jury is still out. Even though there is data out there suggesting the benefits of a supplement to skin, joints and muscles, (there are studies that undoubtedly been shown to aid in improving skin quality, helping you to maintain a smooth and silky complexion) there just isn’t enough proven evidence that adding collagen peptides does all that it claims. Some experts believe getting collagen from food like homemade stock using bones from chicken, fish, or beef is best.
Maybe the best news out there is that there is little to no risk of trying, so for me, while consuming collagen probably won’t turn the clock all the way back, I am willing to try.
My order just arrived!
I would really love to hear your thoughts on this? Are you taking a Collagen Supplement? Please comment below.
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